Admirals Club Observations

Today while traveling, I am lucky enough to be able to enjoy the American Airlines Admirals Club at the Denver Airport. And surprise, surprise... I can’t help but notice the design.

The chairs are small, yet comfortable with significant armrests. The strategic grouping encourages strangers to feel comfortable sitting close to each other and the vinyl upholstery has a leather appearance and hand, but is actually easily cleaned. The narrow legs and 6” elevation off the floor allows for a vacuum to easily reach crumbs and dust that might fall just underneath.

The end end tables are study and not easily movable, defining the layout of the seating and prevents guests from rearranging the furniture. A quartz countertop is both durable and easily cleaned. They also contain power: ideal for guests who need a quick charge on a cell phone or laptop. The other round, laptop table mirrors the look of the fixed end table, but it much lighter, encouraging guests to relocate it in this soft seating area to suit their needs.

Behind the chairs is a tile wainscot to act as a chair rail, protecting the wall should the chairs be pushed against it. Behind that, the vinyl wall covering is a great choice for cleanability in a heavily trafficked public place.

Carpet tile was the obvious choice for flooring here. It is sound absorbent with a pattern that hides both dust and crumbs. As a tile, when one does eventually become damaged it can be replaced easily. The transition to polished tile is clean and simple, where the tile serves as wayfinding to the exit and other serving functions this lounge provides.

The space is lit predominately through indirect lighting, a great choice for avoiding glare and eye fatigue. The wash is even and not distracting to look at. The slot diffusers surrounding the light self become a part of the design, echoing the shape of the room instead of disrupting it. And recessed sprinkler heads are unobtrusive, yet functional should the need arise.

And now I’m going to shut up and drink my free cappuccino! -C